FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JULY 9: Adrien Rabiot (L) of France and Ayyoub Bouaddi (R) of Morocco fight for the ball during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Quarter Final match between France and Morocco at Boston Stadium on July 9, 2026 in Foxborough, United States. (Photo by Hugo Rivera/Jam Media/Getty Images)Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has etched his name into the history books, becoming the first African player to make five FIFA World Cup appearances as a teenager.The 18-year-old Lille star reached the milestone during Morocco’s World Cup quarter-final clash against France on Thursday, July 9, 2026. At 18 years and 280 days old, Bouaddi has been a revelation for the Atlas Lions in North America, starting four of Morocco’s five matches at the tournament.Born on October 2, 2007, in Senlis, France, Bouaddi only committed his international future to Morocco a few months before the World Cup. He has quickly become a key figure in Mohamed Ouahbi’s midfield, delivering eye-catching performances that have caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs.Bouaddi’s World Cup debut against Brazil on June 13 was nothing short of spectacular. The teenager produced a coming-of-age performance, completing 60 of his 66 passes for a 91 per cent accuracy rate, including 100 per cent in the final third.He also won nine duels, made five interceptions, and recorded six recoveries. Former England captain Alan Shearer, working for BBC Sport, praised Bouaddi’s composure and ability to dictate play in the middle of the park.Bouaddi’s record-breaking achievement adds to an already impressive list of milestones. He became the youngest African player to win a World Cup match during the group stage and is also the second-youngest player to feature in a World Cup quarter-final, behind only the legendary Pel.Having represented France at youth level, including as captain of the U21 side, Bouaddi’s decision to play for Morocco has been vindicated. His performances have been so impressive that he is now being tipped for a big-money summer move, with several of Europe’s top clubs reportedly interested.For now, Bouaddi continues to focus on Morocco’s World Cup campaign. The Atlas Lions are aiming to go one better than their historic semi-final run in 2022, and their teenage midfield sensation is at the heart of their charge.



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